More often than not, a printer’s specification list in any given product catalog includes a “DPI resolution.” Simply put, DPI stands for “dots per inch,” and is one of the most important attributes to consider when selecting your ideal printer. DPI is determined by the amount of dots of ink that can be printed in a square inch.

Much like computer monitors, printers produce content based on a certain resolution. But instead of pixels, printers produce “dots” made up of different colors that together formulate the text or images being printed. The higher the DPI, the sharper the print.

Printers often have various DPI levels, depending on the settings. For example, a setting more favorable for printing text typically has a DPI of 300-600. Printing photos and other graphics in color will look best with a higher DPI, often into the thousands.

Choosing a printer with flexible DPI settings can make all the difference in the quality of the product. Inkjet printers, which releases ink through tiny nozzles, typically have lower DPI levels than laser printers, which produce images via laser projection and can quickly print from 600-1,200 DPI in most consumer-level models.

It’s important to remember that a higher print quality will likely reduce the speed of the print. It’s best to determine what your typical print product entails; if you’re primarily printing text documents, a model with a lower DPI but a faster pages per minute rate can save your company time and resources. Printing photos and other graphics – especially in color – will lower PPM, but with the right DPI levels can deliver stunning and sharp quality.

Duplicating Products is committed to meeting our customers’ printing and copying solutions, whether it’s a simple, document-friendly printer or a high-DPI device with advanced capabilities. Contact us today to find the right products for your business today.